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[pace]

I used to stress about the school I would get into when I was a senior in high school, but really, when you're looking for a job, GPA and the school you graduated from aren't as big a deal as you think it is. Employers really are looking more for the experience and skillsets you have. 

I would say moreso than good grades or extracurricular activities, schools are really looking to see your resilience in college apps when doing those statements/questions they have. They want to know what are the things you've struggled with and how you have tackled those problems. Do you have the coping strategies and problem solving skills to overcome hurdles especially ones you may face during your time at the university? They also want to see where your interests lie and what initiatives you've taken to further that passion of yours. 

When you're looking into a university, maybe consider one that is ranked decently at least for the major of your choice. There are some universities that have contracts with companies so if you are a part of a certain major and graduated from that uni, you are most definitely guaranteed at least an interview for that company right after graduation. If you are really dead set on going to a specific school like an Ivy League and don't get into it, you can try going to a community college first and transfer over. Lastly, I know there's probably a lot of pressure to go to a certain kind of school, but just go where you want to go. Do what's best for you because it is your life!

University is just an extended version of high school with more freedom and responsibility. Your teachers aren't going to give you constant reminders to do things and to study like they did in high school. You need to rely on the syllabus and go from there to set up your own time to study, review, do any assignments, etc. The bulk of your grade comes from exams so you have to make time for yourself to study.

I would recommend talking to your high school counselor on ways to de-stress! Let them direct you to resources to help you out. There are probably lots of resources you will have at Uni for stress management, and I do believe a lot of universities have mentors that can help guide you in your first year of college too.

Hope this helps!

Edited August 20, 2022 by pace